Part of the Olimpico faithful for 73 years, here’s Santa's story: "Roma is a lifelong bond, you keep it in your heart"

This is the story of Santa Bernacchia, who was given by her father Serafino in 1952 the most beautiful gift in the world for AS Roma lovers: a lifetime season ticket. Since that day you can count on one hand the number of times Santa has missed a game at her beloved Olimpico.

"Roma is a part of who I am. Roma is a force that links me deeply to the city and its people. The club represents a passion that goes beyond sport."

What’s the first memory you have of Roma and your first season as a season ticket holder?

"I was very young - six years old - in 1952 when the club put lifetime season tickets on sale. I don't remember the details very clearly, but my first memories associated with Roma are closely linked to my family. I went to the Olimpico with my mother, father and brother, heading over from Trastevere, where we used to live.

“I enjoyed playing around the seating area, running among the fans together with the other children, while they - the adults - focused on the match. That feeling of being together and sharing such special moments has remained etched in my memory."

Which Roma players have you loved the most over these years?

"[Paulo Roberto] Falcao and [Francesco] Totti. Falcao, with his immense class and elegant playing style, won me over right away. He was a rare talent, capable of changing the course of a match with a single pass or a stroke of genius. I think Totti, on the other hand, really embodies Roma, with his visceral love for the shirt. His longevity, his ability to carry the team along and his authenticity have made him an icon not only of Roma, but of football in general. Both players left an indelible mark on my heart and on the history of the club.

“I was also very close to Agostino Di Bartolomei. He was a friend of my brother Piero, despite the age difference between them. I had the opportunity to get to know him not only as a footballer, but also as a person, and his bond with my family made him even more special to me. He was a boy with a big heart, in addition to being an icon for the city of Rome and Roma. I’ll never forget him."

You experienced Roma’s Scudetto triumphs in 1983 and 2001: which was the more emotional experience?

"The one in 1983 was definitely more important and exciting. At the time I was living in Testaccio and the atmosphere was unique – it was bursting with joy and pride. It was a historic moment for the city and for Roma, which was achieved thanks to the incredible work of the club, the president and the coach. That Roma side were truly amazing, a group of players and coaching staff that made all of us fans dream. The Scudetto triumph of 1983 defined an era."

What’s the best game you’ve ever seen at the Olimpico?

"I really couldn't single one out. There are so many that really stirred the emotions, but the most affecting but also tragic was definitely Roma v Liverpool. The feelings created by the European Cup final in 1984 can’t be put into words. I remember the deathly silence that enveloped the stadium after the match. It was a silence that stayed with us even when we went home. It was the silence of a city that had lived a dream, but that had woken up with a broken heart."

How has Roma fandom changed from the 1950s to the present day?

"It’s changed a great deal. Back in the day it was a more intimate and less visible form of passion, but over time it’s grown a great deal, especially thanks to watershed moments in the history of the club. The [Dino] Viola presidency and the arrival of [Nils] Liedholm profoundly changed Roma, bringing a new mentality and energy that the fans really got on board with.

"In recent times there have been many extraordinary occasions, but Roma v Athletic Club really felt like rolling back the years. It was an experience that marked a further evolution of our support – it’s increasingly passionate and involved. The intensity and passion have grown and today the club’s support has become a real force that drags the team and the entire city along."

What does it mean to you to be a Romanista?

"It's something that goes beyond football. Above all, it means a great love for my city, Rome. Just saying and hearing the word fills my heart. Being Roman and a Roma fan is about this feeling of passion and pride that accompany me every day.

"There are only three loves in my life: my two children and Roma. Roma is a part of who I am. Roma is a force that links me deeply to the city and its people. The club represents a passion that goes beyond sport."

Which coach provided you with your best Roma memory?

"Liedholm. He joined Roma at a crucial time and managed to transform the team, bringing in a new mentality and a more fluid and modern game. His ability to develop players and instil confidence in the team had a huge impact on me as a fan.

“Liedholm not only changed Roma, but created a special bond with the fans, through his dedication, his diligence and his footballing vision. His Roma side made you dream, and memories of him are very much present with many Roma fans."

What advice would you give to young Roma fans?

"Never forget what it means to be a Romanista. It's not just about winning but also passionately experiencing every moment that Roma gives us – both victories and defeats. Roma is a family, a bond that lasts a lifetime, and I’d say to these fans to keep it in their hearts.

“The true beauty of being a Romanista is that, even in difficult moments, your faith and love for this team must never fade. Carry on this tradition with pride, with the same heart and passion as those who came before you."

Is there a moment you experienced at the stadium that you’ll carry with you forever?

"There are two that I’ll never forget. The first is the Scudetto win in 1983. The second, however, was a truly special and somewhat unique set of circumstances. I was nine months pregnant with my daughter Micaela, and so I went to the stadium with my overnight bag packed for the hospital, in case I had to give birth.

“That day was a mix of emotions, between the passion for Roma and the wait for the arrival of my daughter. It was a unique experience that will always stay with me, because it represents the coming-together of two loves: the one for my family and the one for Roma."